6.23.2005

The Other Keys

can be found in the writings of the 7th century Buddhist monk and scholar Shantideva.

To wit:

First of all I should make an effortto meditate upon the equality between self and others:I should protect all beings as I do myselfbecause we are all equal in (wanting) pleasure and (not wanting) pain.Hence I should dispel the misery of othersbecause it is suffering just like my own,and I should benefit othersbecause they are sentient beings, just like myself.When both myself and othersare similar in that we wish to be happy,What is so special about me?Why do I strive for my happiness alone?* * *All the violence, fear, and sufferingThat exist in the worldCome from grasping at "self."What use is this great evil monster to you?If you do not let go of the "self,"There will never be an end to your suffering.Just as, if you do not let go of a flame with your hand, You can't stop it from burning your hand.* * *The protection of all beings is achieved through the constant examinationof one's own mistakes.--Mr. Gobley